Bearded rockers ZZ Top have axed their upcoming European tour after singer Dusty Hill was struck down with a serious ear complaint.

Hill is being treated in America after a benign growth was discovered in his ear.

The stint was due to kick off in Leipzig, Germany on June 15 and wind up in Norway a fortnight later. It’s not yet known whether the condition will affect their US jaunt due to start in mid July.

In a statement the singer/bassist said: "I'm looking forward to dealing with this problem and getting back out there with Billy and Frank," Hill said. "I'm sure we'll put this behind us very shortly."

Hill's otolaryngologist, Dr Shawn Nasseri, said in a statement: "In the near term, we plan to stabilise Dusty's hearing and symptoms with medication and a conservative management strategy."